How to Make Vegan Enoki and Peanut Salad: Fresh and Nutritious

Vegan enoki and peanut salad is a refreshing, nutrient-rich dish that’s easy to prepare at home. Combining the natural sweetness of enoki mushrooms, the crunch of fresh vegetables, and the nutty flavor of roasted peanuts, this salad is not only delicious but also great for your health, especially during hot summer days.

Why Choose Vegan Enoki and Peanut Salad?

This dish is more than just a tasty meal; it offers numerous health benefits:

• Body Cooling: The main ingredients, mushrooms and fresh vegetables, help detoxify and cool the body effectively.
• Nutrient Boost: Enoki mushrooms are rich in protein, vitamins B and D, and minerals like potassium and zinc. Peanuts provide healthy fats and plant-based protein, enhancing energy levels.
• Easy to Digest: The salad contains minimal oil and is high in fiber, making it suitable for everyone, including the elderly and children.
• Variety in Vegan Diet: It’s a perfect addition to diversify your daily vegan meals.

Vegan Enoki and Peanut Salad

Ingredients Needed

To prepare the perfect vegan enoki and peanut salad, gather these ingredients:

• Enoki mushrooms: 300g (choose fresh, firm mushrooms without bruises)
• Carrot: 1 small
• Cucumber: 1
• Roasted peanuts: 100g (homemade or store-bought)
• Herbs: Cilantro, basil, perilla (to taste)
• Fresh chili: 1 (optional)
• Lime: 1
• Garlic: 2 cloves
• Seasonings: Vegan fish sauce, sugar, salt, cooking oil

Tips for Choosing Quality Enoki Mushrooms:

• Prefer mushrooms that are ivory-colored, firm, and not slimy or smelly.
• Buy from reputable stores to ensure food safety.

Detailed Preparation Guide

1. Preparing Ingredients

• Enoki mushrooms: Wash thoroughly, remove the stems. If large, cut into halves or thirds for bite-sized pieces. Let them drain.
• Carrot: Peel, wash, and julienne thinly.
• Cucumber: Wash, remove the seeds, and slice thinly or julienne.
• Herbs: Pick and wash thoroughly, then chop finely.
• Garlic and chili: Peel and mince finely.

2. Blanching the Mushrooms

• Bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt to remove any bitterness.
• Blanch the mushrooms for about 2-3 minutes until cooked.
• Remove the mushrooms, immediately soak in cold water to maintain their crunch. Then gently squeeze out excess water.

3. Preparing the Dressing

• Mix the following ingredients in these proportions:
  • 2 tablespoons vegan fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
  • Minced chili (to taste)
• Stir well until the sugar dissolves, adjust the taste to balance sweet and sour flavors.

4. Mixing the Salad

• Combine the mushrooms, carrot, cucumber, and herbs in a large bowl.
• Gradually pour in the dressing, gently toss to ensure even coating.
• Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

5. Finishing and Presentation

• Arrange the salad on a plate, sprinkle with roasted peanuts.
• Garnish with a few herb sprigs for added visual appeal.
• Enjoy the salad while it’s fresh and crisp.

Vegan Enoki and Peanut Salad with Peanuts

Creative Variations for the Salad

To make the salad even more appealing, try these variations:

• Add Fried Tofu Skin: Enhances the crunch and adds a unique flavor.
• Mix with Green Mango: Green mango strips add a refreshing sweet and sour taste.
• Combine with Seitan: Lightly sautéed seitan makes the dish more filling.

“Creativity in cooking always brings joy and novelty. Experiment to find the recipe that best suits your taste!” – Chef Tran Van Nam, a specialist in vegan cuisine.

Storage Tips

• Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2-3 days to maintain freshness.
• Avoid leaving the salad at room temperature for too long, as it can lose its crunch and turn sour.

Conclusion

Vegan enoki and peanut salad is the ideal dish for those who enjoy healthy vegan cuisine. With its simple preparation, easy-to-find ingredients, and high nutritional value, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Try it out and share your results with “Sổ Tay Món Ăn”!

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I substitute enoki mushrooms with other types of mushrooms?
Yes, you can use oyster mushrooms, straw mushrooms, or king oyster mushrooms. The flavor of the salad will vary slightly depending on the type of mushroom.

2. What can I use instead of vegan fish sauce?
You can use soy sauce or tamari, but adjust the amount of sugar and lime juice to balance the flavor.

3. Can I skip the peanuts if I don’t like them?
Peanuts are a key ingredient, but if you don’t like them, you can substitute with cashews or walnuts.

4. Is vegan enoki salad suitable for those on a diet?
Yes, it’s suitable as it’s low in calories and high in fiber. Just limit the amount of sugar in the dressing.

5. How can I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
Squeeze out excess water after blanching the mushrooms and preparing the vegetables. Mix the salad 15-20 minutes before serving.

6. What is the best accompaniment for vegan enoki salad?
It can be served with white rice, vermicelli noodles, or rice paper.

7. How far in advance can I prepare the salad?
Prepare the ingredients ahead of time, but mix the salad 15-20 minutes before serving to ensure it remains crisp and fresh.